Featuring spectacular views and diverse terrain, hiking is a fun and exhilarating way to experience the Lake Tahoe region in the summer with diverse terrain options for every ability level. Step out our backdoors and explore the 100 miles of trails on Northstar Resort, or embark on a journey around Lake Tahoe and discover the natural treasures of the Sierra Nevada mountains. 


Featured Hikes on Northstar California

Sawmill Lake
Ability Level: Moderate
Distance and Time: 2.3 miles, 1 hour
The Sawmill Lake hiking trail is family-friendly 2.3-mile round trip hike. The trailhead is located at the top of the Big Springs Gondola just down the hill from The Ritz-Carlton. The trail meanders through the forest towards Sawmill Lake. Please see the hotel concierge or True North for a complimentary pass to access this trail.


Lift Access Hiking on Northstar California

Scenic chair lifts on Northstar California lead to trailheads where miles of tracks and loops await hikers of varying abilities. Pack a lunch and meander through pristine forests to breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra. Leashed dogs are welcome. Please note a lift ticket is required for all lift access hiking and is available in True North. Adults (13+) are $10.00, children 12 and under are free.

Sunset Trail
Ability Level: Less Difficult
Distance and Time: .60 miles, 10 minutes
From the top of the Tahoe Zephyr chair lift follow the signs to the Sunset Trail head. The Sunset trail traverses the West ridge of Mt. Pluto offering spectacular views of the Pacific Crest and the back side of Northstar. Along the way you will come across informational vista points that describe The Northstar Habitat Management Plan, Late Seral Forests, Riparian Wildlife Areas and native bird species. This trail is a great introduction to Northstar.

Lookout
Ability Level: More Difficult
Distance and Time: 2.4 miles, 45 minutes
This trail offers great panoramic views of the Pacific Crest and Martis Valley. The top of Lookout Mountain offers some of the most spectacular views at Northstar. Don’t forget to bring your picnic lunch. From the top of The Tahoe Zephyr Chair Lift follow the trail signs North toward Lookout Mountain.

Watson Lake Loop
Ability Level: Most Difficult
Distance and Time: 5.8 to 6.2 miles
The hike to Watson Lake from the to of the Tahoe Zephyr Chair lift offers 360 degree views of the Tahoe Truckee area. Start at the top of the Tahoe Zephyr Chair Lift.
View Northstar Hiking Trail Map


Hiking around Lake Tahoe

Surrounding the Lake Tahoe Basin are hundreds of miles of trails ranging from easy to strenuous that branch off into unspoiled wilderness area. Click here for a list of the most popular hikes in North Lake Tahoe.